5 Gear Essentials for Car Camping

Oh beautiful, lovely, wonderful car camping. Why not bring that espresso maker? Bacon for breakfast, of course. If it will fit in the car its coming camping. Yes its not as rugged as backpacking, but even car camping can take you to unique places with incredible views with almost all the comforts of home. Aspen has such easy access (in the summer) to car camping spots, its something you can up a do any time, assuming you have the right gear... SO here are my gear essentials, things that sometimes I just leave in my car so that I can go camping on a whim. I even took the time to search around for the best prices I could find and put a link under each picture.

Tent: Rei Camp Dome 2
Price: $99

This $99 little beauty is a cinch to put up and survives seemingly every camping situation possible. It comfortably fits two, although we aren't the largest people (tallest is 5'10'') so you may consider it as a one person tent if you are a lot taller. It packs down small and is light enough for two to take backpacking. After using and abusing it for over a year now it hasn't shown any signs of wear. For the price, this tent is a steal.

Sleeping Pad: Alps Mountaineering Lightweight Sleeping Pad
Price:$43.99

You absolutely must have a sleeping pad if you want to get any sleep camping. But I would say this is an item you can skimp if needed. I use and recommend the Alps Mountaineering Lightweight Sleeping pad. Its not crazy expensive, its very comfortable, and its super light. Easy to blow up and pack back up, I've been really happy with it.

Sleeping Bag: Kelty Cosmic 21 Degree Bag
Price:$189.95

I generally believe that when it comes to sleeping bags down is the way to go, down is expensive and there are definitely synthetic options that are great as well. I use the Kelty Cosmic 21 degree bag and I absolutely love it (haven't tried it winter camping, I do not think it would be warm enough). There are lots of options, I would say not to skimp price-wise on your sleeping bag.

Head Lamp: Black Diamond Cosmo 
Price:$29.95

You need a headlamp. It will make your life 1,000,000x easier than trying to use a flashlight while camping. I have about 8 and they are all different brands and they all work just fine, some better than others but I really don't think it matters. I have added a picture and price for the Black Diamond Cosmo headlamp, which is just a great headlamp for the price.

Camp Stove: WhisperLite
Price: $89.95

Though I end up doing most of my cooking over the campfire, I always bring my stove just in case. I use the WhisperLite stove and I love it, but there is a ton of debate on the best camp stove between the WhisperLite and the Jetboil. I think it really comes down to personal preference. My best camping mate uses the MSR PocketRocket that seems to do the trick as well. All great for backpacking as well. Just don't forget matches...

Those are my essentials that rarely leave the car and are definitely on the most convenient shelf in my storage closet. It doesn't hurt to bring a good knife, cooking tools, Water (of course), beer, food, good friends, a camping chair, warm clothing, bug spray, pillows, a hammock, a book, etc.

Go just outside and have fun for me!